Serendib

Nestled in the heart of Ellsworth, Maine, Serendib offers an immersive culinary journey through the rich and vibrant flavors of Sri Lankan and Indian cuisine. This intimate corner restaurant at 2 State Street is a beloved local gem where each dish is crafted with dedication, inviting you to experience a delightful blend of tradition and innovation.

From the moment you step inside Serendib, the warm and welcoming atmosphere draws you in, enhanced by a thoughtfully curated playlist that breaks free from typical Bollywood fare, creating a fresh, relaxed vibe perfect for savoring every bite. The open view of Ellsworth’s bustling Main Street adds a charming backdrop, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a leisurely meal.

Serendib’s menu is a feast for the senses, featuring standout dishes like the Mixed Rice plate, where aromatic spices and hearty legumes mingle with vibrant sides such as Eggplant Sambol—oven-baked and tangy with vinegar and chilies—and the creamy Palak Paneer, boasting housemade Indian cheese enveloped in a luxuriously spiced spinach sauce. Their Butter Chicken Curry, paired with freshly baked housemade naan, is a comforting, indulgent choice that leaves a lasting impression.

For those seeking bold adventure on their plate, the Free Range Wild Boar Roasted with dark roasted whole spices and blackened shredded coconut is a rare culinary treat that encapsulates the essence of Serendib’s commitment to authentic, adventurous flavors. Meanwhile, the Lamb Meatball Curry, juicy and savory, showcases the kitchen’s skill in balancing spices with robust meatiness. Seafood lovers will appreciate unique creations like the Sri Lankan swordfish curry, enlivened by a subtle yogurt tang and the unexpectedly sweet onion chutney served with lentil cakes, a combination praised by regulars.

Serendib’s sides and condiments elevate every dish. The Spicy Coconut Sambol bursts with heat and brightness, while the Beetroot Curry offers an earthy, mellow counterpart. Their thoughtfully prepared Indian and Sri Lankan-style curries, including Chana Masala with organic chickpeas in coconut milk, highlight the diversity and depth of spices used in every meal.

Ending your dining experience with desserts like the Flourless Chocolate Cake, which pairs rich chocolate with a hint of coffee alongside a delicate chai cream, or Mom's Love Cake, a semolina treat infused with cashews and rose water, seals the meal with a blend of comforting sweetness and cultural flair. Serendib's ice cream, crafted locally with jaggery and pure Ceylon tea, offers a uniquely refreshing finish that echoes the restaurant's thoughtful attention to detail.

Patrons consistently praise Serendib not just for its outstanding food but also for the care that goes into each dish. "Incredible food, an absolute staple of the local scene," says one loyal guest, while another raves about the "flavorful sauces I want to put on anything and everything." Though perfection is always sought, candid feedback from customers like the takeout experience showing occasional misses reminds us that Serendib is a passionate, evolving kitchen that listens and grows with its community.

Whether you are a local craving familiar comforts or a traveler eager to explore authentic Sri Lankan and Indian flavors off the beaten path, Serendib is a destination that delivers genuine, soul-satisfying dishes marked by distinctive spices, complex textures, and heartfelt hospitality. Every meal here feels like a serendipitous discovery — warm, vibrant, and utterly memorable.